TSFGeo provides Construction Materials Testing (CMT) services. Our monitoring and quality control (QC) services cover all materials used through every phase of construction. TSFGeo owns and operates fully-equipped in-house soils, concrete, aggregate, and asphalt testing laboratories certified by Construction Materials Engineering Council (CMEC). TSFGeo labs follow the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards. Our West Palm Beach laboratory is validated by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). TSFGeo’s CMT Services include:
| Test Method | Standard | Test Property | Keywords | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit Weight and Voids in Aggregate | ASTM C29/C29M | Bulk density (unit weight), percent voids | unit weight, bulk density, voids, aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Bulk Density ("Unit Weight") and Voids in Aggregate Reference Number ASTM C29/C29M / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Bulk density (unit weight), percent voids Description of Test Covers determination of bulk density (unit weight) of fine, coarse, or mixed aggregates in a loose or compacted condition, and calculation of voids between aggregate particles based on the measured bulk density and aggregate specific gravity. Applicable to aggregates up to about 125 mm nominal maximum size. Number of Test Specimens 1 (per condition: loose and/or compacted, as required) Test Specimen Size Sufficient to fill calibrated measure per standard Keywords unit weight, bulk density, voids, aggregate |
| Organic Impurities in Fine Aggregate | ASTM C40/C40M | Presence of potentially injurious organic impurities | organic impurities, fine aggregate, sodium hydroxide, color test | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Organic Impurities in Fine Aggregates for Concrete Reference Number ASTM C40/C40M / (same as Standard) Material Fine Aggregate Test Property Presence of potentially injurious organic impurities Description of Test Evaluates fine aggregate for organic impurities using a colorimetric comparison. Fine aggregate is mixed with sodium hydroxide solution and the color of the supernatant liquid is compared to a standard reference to indicate potential presence of harmful organic matter. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Approx. 130 g fine aggregate (typical), per standard Keywords organic impurities, fine aggregate, sodium hydroxide, color test |
| Sampling of Aggregates | ASTM D75/D75M | Obtaining representative samples | sampling, representative sample, aggregate, QA | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Sampling Aggregates Reference Number ASTM D75/D75M / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Obtaining representative samples Description of Test Defines procedures for obtaining representative samples of aggregates from stockpiles, bins, conveyors, or transport units. Emphasizes minimizing segregation and bias so lab results reflect supplied material. Number of Test Specimens As required by project/specification Test Specimen Size Field sample mass per nominal maximum size and project needs Keywords sampling, representative sample, aggregate, QA |
| Material Finer than 75 μm (No. 200) Sieve by Washing | ASTM C117 | Percent fines passing 75 μm by washing | fines, no.200, washing, aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-μm (No. 200) Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing Reference Number ASTM C117 / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Percent fines passing 75 μm by washing Description of Test Determines the amount of material finer than the 75 μm (No. 200) sieve in mineral aggregates by washing. Sample is washed over the sieve to remove fines, dried, and weighed to compute percent loss/fines. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 300 g to several kg depending on aggregate size, per standard Keywords fines, no.200, washing, aggregate |
| Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate | ASTM C127 | Bulk specific gravity, apparent specific gravity, absorption | specific gravity, absorption, coarse aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate Reference Number ASTM C127 / (same as Standard) Material Coarse Aggregate Test Property Bulk specific gravity, apparent specific gravity, absorption Description of Test Determines relative density (specific gravity) and absorption of coarse aggregate using soaking, surface drying, and weighing in air and water. Used for concrete mix proportioning and quality control. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 2 kg or more (depends on nominal maximum size), per standard Keywords specific gravity, absorption, coarse aggregate |
| Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate | ASTM C128 | Bulk specific gravity, apparent specific gravity, absorption | specific gravity, absorption, fine aggregate, pycnometer | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Fine Aggregate Reference Number ASTM C128 / (same as Standard) Material Fine Aggregate Test Property Bulk specific gravity, apparent specific gravity, absorption Description of Test Determines relative density (specific gravity) and absorption of fine aggregate using a pycnometer and saturated surface-dry condition determination. Used for concrete mix proportioning and QC. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically about 1,000 g, per standard Keywords specific gravity, absorption, fine aggregate, pycnometer |
| Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates | ASTM C136/C136M | Gradation (particle size distribution) | gradation, sieve analysis, aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates Reference Number ASTM C136/C136M / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Gradation (particle size distribution) Description of Test Determines particle size distribution of aggregates by sieving a dried sample through a nested series of sieves. Mass retained on each sieve is used to compute percent passing and gradation curve. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Sample mass per nominal maximum size (varies), per standard Keywords gradation, sieve analysis, aggregate |
| Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying | ASTM C566 | Total moisture content | moisture content, drying, aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying Reference Number ASTM C566 / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Total moisture content Description of Test Determines total evaporable moisture content of aggregate by oven drying to constant mass. Results support batch weight corrections and field moisture control. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically ≥500 g (or more for coarse aggregate), per standard Keywords moisture content, drying, aggregate |
| Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size | ASTM C702/C702M | Sample reduction without bias | sample reduction, splitting, quartering, aggregate | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size Reference Number ASTM C702/C702M / (same as Standard) Material Aggregate Test Property Sample reduction without bias Description of Test Provides methods (splitting, quartering, or mini-splitter) to reduce aggregate samples to appropriate testing size while maintaining representativeness. Number of Test Specimens As needed Test Specimen Size Depends on original field sample and required test portion Keywords sample reduction, splitting, quartering, aggregate |
| Concrete and Concrete Aggregate Testing Agency Requirements | ASTM C1077 | Quality system and competency requirements | quality system, testing agency, accreditation, ASTM C1077 | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation Reference Number ASTM C1077 / (same as Standard) Material Concrete/Aggregate Test Property Quality system and competency requirements Description of Test Defines minimum qualifications and quality system requirements for agencies performing sampling and testing of concrete and concrete aggregates, including personnel, equipment, calibration, and reporting practices. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice/criteria) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords quality system, testing agency, accreditation, ASTM C1077 |
| Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity and Density of Asphalt Mixtures (Rice) | ASTM D2041/D2041M | Theoretical maximum specific gravity (Gmm) and maximum density | Gmm, rice test, theoretical maximum, asphalt | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity and Density of Asphalt Mixtures Reference Number ASTM D2041/D2041M / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Theoretical maximum specific gravity (Gmm) and maximum density Description of Test Determines theoretical maximum specific gravity and density of uncompacted asphalt mixtures at 25°C using a vacuum procedure to remove entrapped air. Used to calculate air voids and set compaction targets for mix design and QC. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 1,000–1,500 g (depends on NMAS), per standard Keywords Gmm, rice test, theoretical maximum, asphalt |
| Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures | ASTM D2726/D2726M | Bulk specific gravity (Gmb) and bulk density | Gmb, bulk specific gravity, asphalt density | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures Reference Number ASTM D2726/D2726M / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Bulk specific gravity (Gmb) and bulk density Description of Test Determines bulk specific gravity and density of compacted asphalt mixture specimens by mass measurements in air and water. Used with Gmm to compute air voids and evaluate compaction. Number of Test Specimens Typically 2–3 specimens Test Specimen Size Marshall 4 in (101.6 mm) or gyratory specimen, or field core Keywords Gmb, bulk specific gravity, asphalt density |
| Density of Bituminous Concrete in Place by Nuclear Methods | ASTM D2950/D2950M | In-place density (nuclear gauge) | nuclear gauge, in-place density, asphalt | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Density of Bituminous Concrete in Place by Nuclear Methods Reference Number ASTM D2950/D2950M / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Pavement Test Property In-place density (nuclear gauge) Description of Test Measures in-place density of bituminous concrete using a nuclear gauge. Used for compaction control and acceptance when permitted by project specifications and safety regulations. Number of Test Specimens Multiple readings per test location (project-defined) Test Specimen Size In-place measurement; no extracted specimen Keywords nuclear gauge, in-place density, asphalt |
| Percent Air Voids in Compacted Asphalt Mixtures | ASTM D3203 | Percent air voids | air voids, volumetrics, asphalt | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Percent Air Voids in Compacted Dense and Open Asphalt Mixtures Reference Number ASTM D3203 / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Percent air voids Description of Test Calculates percent air voids in compacted asphalt mixtures using theoretical maximum specific gravity (Gmm) and bulk specific gravity (Gmb). Air voids support mix design verification and compaction acceptance. Number of Test Specimens N/A (calculation using Gmm and Gmb results) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords air voids, volumetrics, asphalt |
| Random Sampling of Construction Materials | ASTM D3665 | Random sampling procedures | random sampling, QA, QC | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Materials Reference Number ASTM D3665 / (same as Standard) Material Construction Materials Test Property Random sampling procedures Description of Test Establishes statistical procedures for random selection of sampling locations, times, or units to reduce bias in QC/QA programs. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords random sampling, QA, QC |
| Agency Requirements for Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials | ASTM D3666 | Minimum requirements for testing/inspection agencies | testing agency, accreditation, road materials | Test Method Title Standard Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials Reference Number ASTM D3666 / (same as Standard) Material Road & Paving Materials Test Property Minimum requirements for testing/inspection agencies Description of Test Defines quality system, personnel qualifications, equipment, calibration, and reporting requirements for agencies performing testing and inspection of road and paving materials. Number of Test Specimens N/A (specification) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords testing agency, accreditation, road materials |
| Mechanical Size Analysis of Extracted Aggregate | ASTM D5444 | Recovered aggregate gradation | extracted aggregate, gradation, asphalt | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Mechanical Size Analysis of Extracted Aggregate Reference Number ASTM D5444 / (same as Standard) Material Extracted Asphalt Aggregate Test Property Recovered aggregate gradation Description of Test Determines particle size distribution of aggregate extracted from asphalt mixtures. Recovered aggregate is dried and sieved to assess gradation changes due to production or handling. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically ≥500 g recovered aggregate, per standard Keywords extracted aggregate, gradation, asphalt |
| Asphalt Content of Hot-Mix Asphalt by Ignition Method | ASTM D6307 | Binder content by ignition (and aggregate gradation, if required) | binder content, ignition furnace, asphalt | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Asphalt Content of Asphalt Mixture by Ignition Method Reference Number ASTM D6307 / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Binder content by ignition (and aggregate gradation, if required) Description of Test Determines asphalt binder content by burning the mixture in an ignition furnace and measuring mass loss, with corrections as required. Often used with recovered aggregate for gradation verification. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 1,000–1,500 g (depends on NMAS/furnace), per standard Keywords binder content, ignition furnace, asphalt |
| Preparation of Asphalt Specimens using Marshall Apparatus | ASTM D6926 | Compacted specimen preparation | marshall, compaction, specimen preparation | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Preparation of Bituminous Specimens Using Marshall Apparatus Reference Number ASTM D6926 / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Compacted specimen preparation Description of Test Provides procedures for preparing cylindrical asphalt specimens using the Marshall compaction method. Specimens are used for stability/flow and volumetric evaluation. Number of Test Specimens Typically 3 or more Test Specimen Size 4 in (101.6 mm) diameter Marshall specimens Keywords marshall, compaction, specimen preparation |
| Marshall Stability and Flow of Asphalt Mixtures | ASTM D6927 | Stability (maximum load) and flow (deformation) | marshall stability, flow, asphalt strength | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Marshall Stability and Flow of Asphalt Mixtures Reference Number ASTM D6927 / (same as Standard) Material Asphalt Mixture Test Property Stability (maximum load) and flow (deformation) Description of Test Determines Marshall stability and flow by loading Marshall-compacted specimens at a prescribed rate and temperature until failure, recording maximum load and corresponding deformation. Number of Test Specimens Typically 3 specimens Test Specimen Size 4 in (101.6 mm) diameter Marshall specimens Keywords marshall stability, flow, asphalt strength |
| Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field | ASTM C31/C31M | Field specimen preparation and curing procedures | field curing, cylinders, beams, concrete | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field Reference Number ASTM C31/C31M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Field specimen preparation and curing procedures Description of Test Covers procedures for making, curing, protecting, and transporting fresh concrete specimens (cylinders and beams) prepared in the field for strength testing. Number of Test Specimens As required by project (commonly 2+ per test age) Test Specimen Size Cylinders (4x8 or 6x12 in) and/or beams (size per standard) Keywords field curing, cylinders, beams, concrete |
| Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens | ASTM C39/C39M | Compressive strength | compressive strength, cylinders, concrete | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens Reference Number ASTM C39/C39M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Compressive strength Description of Test Determines compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens (molded cylinders or drilled cores) by applying axial compressive load at a controlled rate until failure and calculating strength from maximum load and area. Number of Test Specimens Minimum 2 specimens per age (typical) Test Specimen Size Cylinders 6x12 in or 4x8 in; cores per project Keywords compressive strength, cylinders, concrete |
| Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete | ASTM C42/C42M | In-place strength and condition assessment | cores, in-place concrete, strength | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete Reference Number ASTM C42/C42M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property In-place strength and condition assessment Description of Test Describes procedures for obtaining drilled cores and sawed beams from hardened concrete, preparing them, and testing for compressive or flexural strength for evaluation of in-place concrete. Number of Test Specimens Project-defined (often 3 or more) Test Specimen Size Common core diameters 4 in or 6 in; length/diameter per standard Keywords cores, in-place concrete, strength |
| Flexural Strength of Concrete by Third-Point Loading | ASTM C78/C78M | Modulus of rupture (flexural strength) | flexural strength, modulus of rupture, beam | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading) Reference Number ASTM C78/C78M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Modulus of rupture (flexural strength) Description of Test Determines flexural strength (modulus of rupture) of concrete beams using third-point loading. Used in pavement and structural applications where flexural performance is critical. Number of Test Specimens Typically 2–3 beams per age Test Specimen Size Common beam sizes 6x6x20 in or per standard Keywords flexural strength, modulus of rupture, beam |
| Slump of Hydraulic Cement Concrete | ASTM C143/C143M | Workability (slump) | slump, workability, fresh concrete | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete Reference Number ASTM C143/C143M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Workability (slump) Description of Test Determines slump of fresh concrete as an indicator of consistency and workability using a standard slump cone, rodding procedure, and vertical lift measurement. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Fresh concrete sample sufficient to fill slump cone Keywords slump, workability, fresh concrete |
| Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete | ASTM C172/C172M | Representative sampling procedures | sampling, fresh concrete, QA | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete Reference Number ASTM C172/C172M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Representative sampling procedures Description of Test Provides procedures for obtaining representative samples of freshly mixed concrete for testing (slump, air, temperature, strength specimens), emphasizing timing and remixing to maintain uniformity. Number of Test Specimens As required Test Specimen Size Composite sample volume per standard and required tests Keywords sampling, fresh concrete, QA |
| Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Volumetric Method | ASTM C173/C173M | Air content (volumetric) | air content, volumetric, concrete | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Volumetric Method Reference Number ASTM C173/C173M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Air content (volumetric) Description of Test Determines air content of freshly mixed concrete using a volumetric air meter. Often used when pressure method is not performed or when aggregate correction factors apply. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Fresh concrete sample to fill air meter bowl (meter-specific) Keywords air content, volumetric, concrete |
| Molds for Forming Concrete Test Cylinders Vertically | ASTM C470/C470M | Mold dimensional and material requirements | cylinder molds, specification, concrete | Test Method Title Standard Specification for Molds for Forming Concrete Test Cylinders Vertically Reference Number ASTM C470/C470M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Mold dimensional and material requirements Description of Test Specifies requirements for molds used to form concrete cylinders, including dimensions, materials, tolerances, and reusability criteria to ensure consistent specimen quality. Number of Test Specimens N/A (specification) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords cylinder molds, specification, concrete |
| Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used in the Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes | ASTM C511 | Curing environment requirements | moist curing, curing room, specification | Test Method Title Standard Specification for Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used in the Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes Reference Number ASTM C511 / (same as Standard) Material Concrete/Cement Test Property Curing environment requirements Description of Test Specifies construction and performance requirements for moist curing environments (cabinets/rooms/tanks), including temperature and humidity controls, to maintain standard curing conditions. Number of Test Specimens N/A (specification) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords moist curing, curing room, specification |
| Density of Concrete in Place by Nuclear Method | ASTM C1040 | In-place density (nuclear gauge) | nuclear gauge, concrete density, in-place | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Density of Unhardened and Hardened Concrete In Place by Nuclear Methods Reference Number ASTM C1040 / (same as Standard) Material Hardened Concrete Test Property In-place density (nuclear gauge) Description of Test Measures density of concrete in place using nuclear methods for evaluation of uniformity and quality control when permitted by project requirements and safety regulations. Number of Test Specimens Multiple readings per location (project-defined) Test Specimen Size In-place measurement; no extracted specimen Keywords nuclear gauge, concrete density, in-place |
| Temperature of Freshly Mixed Hydraulic-Cement Concrete | ASTM C1064/C1064M | Concrete temperature | temperature, fresh concrete, QC | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Temperature of Freshly Mixed Hydraulic-Cement Concrete Reference Number ASTM C1064/C1064M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property Concrete temperature Description of Test Determines temperature of freshly mixed concrete using a calibrated thermometer/probe inserted into a representative sample. Used for placement control and specification compliance. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Fresh concrete sample sufficient for probe immersion depth Keywords temperature, fresh concrete, QC |
| Use of Unbonded Caps in Determination of Compressive Strength of Hardened Concrete Cylinders | ASTM C1231/C1231M | End preparation method for compression testing | unbonded caps, cylinder ends, compressive testing | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Use of Unbonded Caps in Determination of Compressive Strength of Hardened Concrete Cylinders Reference Number ASTM C1231/C1231M / (same as Standard) Material Concrete Test Property End preparation method for compression testing Description of Test Provides requirements for using unbonded caps (elastomeric pads in retaining rings) to prepare cylinder ends for compressive strength testing, as an alternative to grinding or sulfur capping. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice); applied to each compression specimen Test Specimen Size Cylinders 4x8 in or 6x12 in Keywords unbonded caps, cylinder ends, compressive testing |
| Dry Preparation of Soil Samples for Particle-Size Analysis and Soil Constants | ASTM D421 | Sample preparation for gradation and Atterberg limits | soil preparation, dry prep, gradation | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Dry Preparation of Soil Samples for Particle-Size Analysis and Determination of Soil Constants Reference Number ASTM D421 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Sample preparation for gradation and Atterberg limits Description of Test Describes procedures for dry preparation of soil samples prior to particle-size analysis and determination of soil constants, including drying, disaggregation, and removal of oversized particles as applicable. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords soil preparation, dry prep, gradation |
| Particle-Size Analysis of Soils (Sieve and Hydrometer) | ASTM D422 | Gradation (coarse and fine fractions) | gradation, hydrometer, sieve, soil | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils Reference Number ASTM D422 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Gradation (coarse and fine fractions) Description of Test Determines particle-size distribution of soils by sieve analysis for coarse fractions and hydrometer analysis for fine fractions, supporting soil classification and engineering evaluation. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 500 g total; hydrometer portion often ~50 g (varies), per standard Keywords gradation, hydrometer, sieve, soil |
| Laboratory Compaction Characteristics by Standard Effort (Standard Proctor) | ASTM D698 | Moisture-density relationship (MDD/OMC) | standard proctor, compaction, MDD, OMC | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Standard Effort Reference Number ASTM D698 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Moisture-density relationship (MDD/OMC) Description of Test Determines relationship between moisture content and dry density for soil compacted using standard effort. Results establish maximum dry density and optimum moisture for earthwork QC. Number of Test Specimens Multiple points per curve (commonly 4–6) Test Specimen Size Mold 4 in or 6 in diameter; soil mass per method Keywords standard proctor, compaction, MDD, OMC |
| Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by Water Pycnometer | ASTM D854 | Specific gravity of soil solids | specific gravity, pycnometer, soil solids | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by Water Pycnometer Reference Number ASTM D854 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Specific gravity of soil solids Description of Test Determines specific gravity of soil solids passing the 4.75 mm sieve using a water pycnometer. Used in calculations for void ratio, degree of saturation, and hydrometer analysis. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size At least 25 g dry soil passing #4 sieve (typical minimum) Keywords specific gravity, pycnometer, soil solids |
| Amount of Material Finer than 75-μm (No. 200) Sieve in Soils by Washing | ASTM D1140 | Percent fines passing 75 μm by washing | fines, no.200, washing, soil | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Amount of Material in Soils Finer than the 75-μm (No. 200) Sieve Reference Number ASTM D1140 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Percent fines passing 75 μm by washing Description of Test Determines the portion of soil finer than the 75 μm (No. 200) sieve by washing, drying, and weighing, supporting soil classification and performance assessment. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 300 g or more depending on gradation, per standard Keywords fines, no.200, washing, soil |
| Density and Unit Weight of Soil in Place by the Sand-Cone Method | ASTM D1556/D1556M | In-place density/unit weight | sand cone, in-place density, field compaction | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in Place by the Sand-Cone Method Reference Number ASTM D1556/D1556M / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property In-place density/unit weight Description of Test Determines in-place density and unit weight of compacted soils by excavating a small hole, measuring hole volume with calibrated sand, and using excavated soil mass and moisture content. Number of Test Specimens 1 test per location Test Specimen Size Test hole volume per apparatus; excavated soil sufficient for moisture determination Keywords sand cone, in-place density, field compaction |
| Laboratory Compaction Characteristics by Modified Effort (Modified Proctor) | ASTM D1557 | Moisture-density relationship (MDD/OMC) under modified effort | modified proctor, compaction, MDD, OMC | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort Reference Number ASTM D1557 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Moisture-density relationship (MDD/OMC) under modified effort Description of Test Determines relationship between moisture content and dry density for soil compacted using modified effort. Results used for higher compaction energy projects such as pavements and structural fills. Number of Test Specimens Multiple points per curve (commonly 4–6) Test Specimen Size Mold 4 in or 6 in diameter; soil mass per method Keywords modified proctor, compaction, MDD, OMC |
| California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of Laboratory-Compacted Soils | ASTM D1883 | Bearing ratio (CBR) | CBR, bearing capacity, pavement subgrade | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of Laboratory-Compacted Soils Reference Number ASTM D1883 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Bearing ratio (CBR) Description of Test Determines CBR by measuring resistance to penetration of a standard piston into a laboratory-compacted soil specimen under controlled conditions, often including soaking where specified. Number of Test Specimens Typically 3 specimens (project-defined) Test Specimen Size Common molds 6 in diameter; specimen height per standard Keywords CBR, bearing capacity, pavement subgrade |
| Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soil | ASTM D2166/D2166M | Unconfined compressive strength; undrained shear strength (su) | UCS, unconfined compression, cohesive soil | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soil Reference Number ASTM D2166/D2166M / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Unconfined compressive strength; undrained shear strength (su) Description of Test Determines unconfined compressive strength by axially loading a cylindrical cohesive soil specimen without lateral confinement until failure, reporting qu and often su=qu/2 for saturated clays. Number of Test Specimens Typically 3 specimens Test Specimen Size Common specimen 2 in diameter x 4 in height (or equivalent), per standard Keywords UCS, unconfined compression, cohesive soil |
| Calibration of Laboratory Mechanical-Rammer Soil Compactors | ASTM D2168 | Compactor calibration and verification | calibration, proctor equipment, QA | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Calibration of Laboratory Mechanical-Rammer Soil Compactors Reference Number ASTM D2168 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Lab Equipment Test Property Compactor calibration and verification Description of Test Provides procedures for calibrating and verifying laboratory compactors (rammers) used in Proctor compaction testing, ensuring correct drop height, rammer mass, and energy delivery. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords calibration, proctor equipment, QA |
| Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock | ASTM D2216 | Moisture content | water content, moisture, oven drying | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass Reference Number ASTM D2216 / (same as Standard) Material Soil/Rock Test Property Moisture content Description of Test Determines water content by measuring mass loss of a specimen after oven drying to constant mass. Used for classification, compaction control, and strength correlations. Number of Test Specimens 1 (often duplicates for QC) Test Specimen Size Typically 20–200 g depending on particle size, per standard Keywords water content, moisture, oven drying |
| Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (USCS) | ASTM D2487 | Soil classification (USCS group symbol/name) | USCS, soil classification, unified | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System) Reference Number ASTM D2487 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Soil classification (USCS group symbol/name) Description of Test Classifies soils into USCS groups based on particle-size distribution and plasticity characteristics. Uses gradation results and Atterberg limits to assign group symbols and names. Number of Test Specimens N/A (classification practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords USCS, soil classification, unified |
| Description and Identification of Soils (Visual-Manual) | ASTM D2488 | Visual-manual identification and description | visual manual, soil description, identification | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Description and Identification of Soils (Visual-Manual Procedure) Reference Number ASTM D2488 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Visual-manual identification and description Description of Test Provides field/lab procedures for visually and manually describing and identifying soils, including estimates of gradation, plasticity, moisture, structure, and color for reporting. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords visual manual, soil description, identification |
| Moisture, Ash, and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils | ASTM D2974 | Moisture content, ash content, organic matter | organic matter, peat, ash, ignition | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Moisture, Ash, and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils Reference Number ASTM D2974 / (same as Standard) Material Organic Soil/Peat Test Property Moisture content, ash content, organic matter Description of Test Determines moisture, ash, and organic matter content of peat and organic soils by controlled drying and ignition, supporting classification and engineering assessment of organic deposits. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 10–20 g (varies by method portion), per standard Keywords organic matter, peat, ash, ignition |
| Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock | ASTM D3740 | Agency quality requirements | testing agency, soil, rock, QA | Test Method Title Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction Reference Number ASTM D3740 / (same as Standard) Material Soil/Rock Test Property Agency quality requirements Description of Test Defines minimum requirements for agencies performing soil and rock testing/inspection, including personnel, equipment, calibration, procedures, and reporting in support of engineering projects. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords testing agency, soil, rock, QA |
| Preserving and Transporting Soil Samples | ASTM D4220 | Sample preservation and transport procedures | sample preservation, transport, soil sampling | Test Method Title Standard Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil Samples Reference Number ASTM D4220 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Sample preservation and transport procedures Description of Test Provides methods for preserving and transporting soil samples to maintain moisture condition and structure as needed for subsequent laboratory testing, including sealing, packaging, and labeling guidance. Number of Test Specimens N/A (practice) Test Specimen Size N/A Keywords sample preservation, transport, soil sampling |
| Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils | ASTM D4318 | Liquid limit (LL), plastic limit (PL), plasticity index (PI) | atterberg limits, liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils Reference Number ASTM D4318 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Liquid limit (LL), plastic limit (PL), plasticity index (PI) Description of Test Determines Atterberg limits of fine-grained soils: liquid limit by cup or cone penetration methods, plastic limit by rolling threads, and plasticity index as LL minus PL. Used for classification and behavior prediction. Number of Test Specimens Typically 1 set per sample (often duplicates for QC) Test Specimen Size PL portion commonly uses ≥20 g of prepared material; total prepared fines per standard Keywords atterberg limits, liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index |
| Determination of Water Content of Soil by Microwave Oven Heating | ASTM D4643 | Rapid moisture content | microwave, rapid moisture, water content | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Determination of Water Content of Soil by Microwave Oven Heating Reference Number ASTM D4643 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Rapid moisture content Description of Test Determines water content by rapid drying using a microwave oven under controlled intervals to avoid overheating, providing faster moisture results for construction control where allowed. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Typically 100–200 g (varies), per standard Keywords microwave, rapid moisture, water content |
| Field Moisture Content of Soil by Calcium Carbide Gas Pressure Tester | ASTM D4944 | Field moisture content | calcium carbide, speedy moisture, field water content | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Field Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil by the Calcium Carbide Gas Pressure Tester Reference Number ASTM D4944 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Field moisture content Description of Test Determines field moisture content by reacting calcium carbide with soil moisture to generate acetylene gas; pressure developed is correlated to moisture content. Used for quick field checks. Number of Test Specimens 1 test per location Test Specimen Size Soil mass per tester kit (often 6–20 g depending on kit), per standard Keywords calcium carbide, speedy moisture, field water content |
| Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-Aggregate in Place by Nuclear Methods | ASTM D6938 | In-place wet density and water content (nuclear gauge) | nuclear gauge, in-place density, water content | Test Method Title Standard Test Methods for In-Place Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-Aggregate by Nuclear Methods Reference Number ASTM D6938 / (same as Standard) Material Soil/Soil-Aggregate Test Property In-place wet density and water content (nuclear gauge) Description of Test Determines in-place density and water content using a nuclear gauge in direct transmission or backscatter modes. Used for compaction control and acceptance when permitted by project requirements. Number of Test Specimens Multiple readings per location (project-defined) Test Specimen Size In-place measurement; no extracted specimen Keywords nuclear gauge, in-place density, water content |
| Fine-Grained Soil Distribution with Hydrometer Analysis | ASTM D7928 | Particle size distribution of fine fraction by hydrometer | hydrometer, sedimentation, fine-grained, gradation | Test Method Title Standard Test Method for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Fine-Grained Soils Using the Sedimentation (Hydrometer) Analysis Reference Number ASTM D7928 / (same as Standard) Material Soil Test Property Particle size distribution of fine fraction by hydrometer Description of Test Determines particle-size distribution of fine-grained soils using hydrometer sedimentation principles, reporting percent finer versus equivalent diameter for silt and clay fractions. Number of Test Specimens 1 Test Specimen Size Hydrometer test portion commonly ~50 g (varies), per standard Keywords hydrometer, sedimentation, fine-grained, gradation |